As the Indian cricket team intensified its preparations for the second Test against England at Edgbaston, a surprise visit during their practice session added a touch of familiarity and warmth. Popular social media personality @thisisbrar and former domestic cricketer Jagjit Singh Sandhu joined the team during their training in Birmingham, offering moral support and sharing moments of camaraderie with players and staff. While their involvement was informal, it provided a boost to team spirit ahead of what is expected to be a crucial clash in the series.
The second India Test looms large after India’s defeat in the opening match, prompting a focused approach from the team management. Closed-door training sessions were arranged in the lead-up to the Test, with the team preferring a low-profile environment to work on specific plans and player roles. The inclusion of @thisisbrar and Sandhu offered not just encouragement but also a brief cultural reconnection, reminding the players of home and easing the mental load of a long overseas tour.
While the guests drew attention, the india session itself was anything but light. Coaches and analysts closely monitored player performances as several new names were trialed in the nets. Among the most closely watched was left-arm seamer Arshdeep Singh. Known for his accuracy and swing in white-ball formats, Arshdeep bowled extensively under the supervision of bowling coach Morne Morkel. With Jasprit Bumrah and Prasidh Krishna both sitting out the session, Arshdeep appears to be in serious contention for a Test debut.
Also catching the eye was Akashdeep, another promising pacer who has steadily risen through the ranks in india domestic cricket. His raw pace and ability to hit the right lengths on English pitches make him an intriguing option, especially with workload concerns surrounding India’s frontline fast bowlers. The selectors and coaching staff seemed keen to assess depth options in the pace department ahead of a match that could define the series.
There was also notable activity around India’s spin bowling plans. With Edgbaston likely to offer more grip than initially expected, the possibility of fielding two spinners was being discussed. Kuldeep Yadav, who was seen working intensively with spin coaches, may finally get a long-format chance after his recent successes in shorter formats. His left-arm wrist spin adds variety and control, a combination that could trouble England’s middle order.
Another contender being considered is Washington Sundar. His all-round abilities, particularly his calm batting lower down the order, give him an edge in terms of team balance. If India chooses to play five bowlers, Sundar’s inclusion could allow for greater flexibility. Meanwhile, Nitish Kumar Reddy, a young all-rounder known for his sharp reflexes and energetic fielding, also participated in drills, indicating the management is open to trying new options.
The mood at practice was upbeat, though intense. The addition of familiar faces like @thisisbrar and Jagjit Singh Sandhu injected positivity, but the emphasis remained firmly on readiness and execution. India will enter the Edgbaston Test with a mix of experience and youth, and possibly some bold selection calls. With the series hanging in the balance, the second Test offers both redemption and opportunity—and India looks determined to grab it with both hands.
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